Victoria University of Wellington

The Bachelor of Environment and Society (Environmental Studies) at Victoria University of Wellington helps you understand environmental challenges by combining social perspectives with the science of the natural world. You’ll build practical skills to analyse problems, evaluate solutions, and contribute to sustainability and environmental justice. Key highlights:

• Interdisciplinary degree covering both the biophysical drivers of environmental change and the social, political, and ethical dimensions.
• Focus on sustainability, environmental justice, and how Indigenous environmental knowledge can inform decision-making.
• Applies learning across scales—from local environmental management to global issues such as climate change and inequality.

Duration: 3 years (full-time) Credits: Typically 360 points (check your study plan with the university) Delivery: On-campus (New Zealand) Programme focus: Environmental Studies with an Environment & Society lens Language of instruction: English Tuition fees: Vary by student category and year (confirm current fees with the university) Intakes: Commonly Semester 1 and Semester 2 (confirm exact start dates) Application: Submit via the university’s application process; deadlines vary by intake Recognition: Undergraduate degree awarded by Victoria University of Wellington

Programme Structure

The BEnvSoc is typically completed over three years and combines core environmental studies courses with research training and applied learning. Course availability can vary by year, so your final study plan should be confirmed with the university.

Typical course areas

• Environment and Resources
• Research Methods for Environmental Studies
• Environmental Economics
• Māori Environmental Issues
• Environmental and Planning Law
• Environmental Management
• Climate Change Problems

Learning activities you can expect

• Lectures and tutorials focused on environmental concepts, policy, and practice
• Research methods and academic skills development
• Assignments that may include case studies, policy analysis, and data-informed arguments

Capstone / thesis

Check the current curriculum for any capstone, project, or thesis component required for your pathway. Some undergraduate programmes include a substantial research or project course in the later stage of study.

Academic requirements

To be considered for entry, you must meet Victoria University of Wellington’s undergraduate admission requirements for the Bachelor of Environment and Society. Entry is typically based on your prior secondary or tertiary study results (for example, International Baccalaureate or equivalent qualifications).

Specific grade thresholds may vary by applicant background and the year of entry.

English requirements

English language proficiency is required unless you meet an approved exemption. Accepted tests and minimum scores (as listed by FindingUni) include:

• IELTS (Academic): overall 6.0 (minimum 5.5 in each band, where applicable)
• TOEFL iBT: 80
• PTE Academic: 50
• Duolingo English Test: 105

Test requirements can change, so confirm the latest minimums with the university before applying.

Other requirements

• International Baccalaureate Diploma, or three GCE Advanced Level passes at C grade, or equivalent.
• You may be asked to provide additional information to support your application (for example, evidence of prior study).

Note: GRE/GMAT are not typically required for undergraduate entry.

Work Permits

Check for any work restrictions

After completing your degree in New Zealand, you may be eligible to apply for a post-study work visa (subject to meeting the current immigration rules at the time you apply).

• Eligibility: You generally need to have completed a qualification at an approved level and meet the requirements for the post-study work pathway.
• Duration: The permitted work period depends on the qualification level and the rules in force when you apply.
• Work conditions: You may be able to work for any employer, but you must follow visa conditions and any limitations that apply to your specific visa grant.
• Timing: You must apply within the required timeframe after completing your programme and meeting any documentation requirements.

Immigration policies can change. For the most accurate guidance for graduates of Victoria University of Wellington and for your specific qualification, check the latest information on the New Zealand immigration website and confirm details with the university’s international office.